Updated: July 2025
Holland & Knight LLP stands as a premier global law firm with roots dating back to 1889. With over 2,200 lawyers and professionals across 34 offices worldwide, the firm has established itself as a powerhouse in the legal industry, ranking 26th on The American Lawyer's 2025 Am Law 200 ranking with gross revenue of $2.04 billion.
The firm significantly expanded its market presence through a strategic merger with Thompson & Knight LLP in August 2021, which enhanced its capabilities in energy, finance, and litigation practices while strengthening its position in key markets, particularly in Texas and Mexico.
Holland & Knight offers comprehensive legal services across more than 250 practice areas, with notable strength in litigation, corporate law, real estate, government relations, and healthcare. The firm's collaborative approach to client service, commitment to technological innovation, and emphasis on diversity and inclusion have positioned it as a leading choice for multinational corporations, middle-market companies, and high-net-worth individuals seeking sophisticated legal counsel.
Holland & Knight has demonstrated remarkable financial growth in recent years, reaching a milestone of $2.04 billion in gross revenue for 2024, placing it 26th on The American Lawyer's 2025 Am Law 200 ranking. This achievement represents a significant progression from its previous positions, showcasing the firm's expanding market presence and financial strength.
The firm's merger with Thompson & Knight in August 2021 catalyzed substantial financial growth, elevating Holland & Knight from the 38th position to the 30th in the AmLaw 100 rankings, with combined revenue reaching $1.4 billion immediately following the merger. By 2025, the firm had further climbed to the 26th position, reflecting continued organic growth and successful integration.
| Year | AmLaw Ranking | Gross Revenue | Key Developments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | #26 | $2.04 billion | Continued expansion in key markets; exceeded $2B milestone |
| 2022 | #30 | $1.4 billion | First full year after Thompson & Knight merger |
| 2021 | #38 | Not specified | Merger with Thompson & Knight (August 2021) |
Holland & Knight traces its origins back to 1889 when the firm was established in Tampa, Florida. The modern iteration of the firm took shape in 1968 through the merger of Holland, Bevis Smith, Kibler & Hall with Knight, Jones, Whitaker & Germany – both firms having deep roots in Florida's legal landscape.
Over the decades, Holland & Knight has pursued a strategic growth trajectory, expanding both geographically and in terms of practice capabilities. The firm has grown from its Florida origins to establish a robust national presence and, subsequently, an international footprint.
A pivotal moment in the firm's recent history came in August 2021 with the merger with Thompson & Knight LLP, a Texas-based firm with significant expertise in energy law. This combination significantly enhanced Holland & Knight's presence in Texas and Mexico while strengthening its energy practice and overall market position. The merger proved transformative, propelling the firm from 38th to 30th place in the AmLaw 100 rankings and setting the stage for continued growth.
Today, Holland & Knight stands as one of the largest and most respected law firms globally, with approximately 2,200 lawyers and other professionals spread across 34 offices in the United States, Latin America, and beyond.
Firm founded in Tampa, Florida
Holland, Bevis Smith, Kibler & Hall merges with Knight, Jones, Whitaker & Germany to form Holland & Knight
Period of significant expansion across the United States
Merger with Thompson & Knight LLP, significantly enhancing presence in Texas and Mexico
Achieves #26 ranking in AmLaw 200 with over $2 billion in revenue
Holland & Knight maintains 34 offices strategically positioned across the United States and internationally. This extensive network enables the firm to provide coordinated legal services to clients with multi-jurisdictional needs while maintaining deep connections to local legal landscapes.
Major offices include New York, Washington D.C., Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and Boston, among others
Offices in Mexico City and Bogotá with extensive experience throughout Latin America
Strategic global positioning to serve multinational clients and cross-border transactions
The firm's geographic footprint reflects its strategic focus on key commercial, financial, and regulatory centers. Following the 2021 merger with Thompson & Knight, Holland & Knight significantly strengthened its presence in Texas (particularly Dallas and Houston) and Mexico, enhancing its capabilities in the energy sector and related practice areas.
Holland & Knight offers comprehensive legal services across more than 250 practice areas, organized within several core groups that reflect the firm's diverse capabilities and industry expertise. The firm's practice structure enables coordinated, cross-disciplinary approaches to complex legal challenges.
Comprehensive advisory services for public and private companies on mergers, acquisitions, securities offerings, corporate governance, and related matters
Representation in complex commercial disputes, class actions, securities litigation, white-collar defense, and specialized litigation matters
Advisory services for real estate transactions, development, financing, land use, and hospitality industry matters
Advocacy before federal, state, and local government agencies, legislative bodies, and regulatory authorities
Significantly enhanced following the Thompson & Knight merger; comprehensive services for traditional and renewable energy sectors
Regulatory, transactional, and litigation services for healthcare providers, insurers, and life sciences companies
Representation of financial institutions, investment funds, and fintech companies on regulatory, transactional, and litigation matters
Patent, trademark, copyright, and technology transaction services, with growing emphasis on emerging technologies
Advisory and litigation services on workforce matters, including a specialized DEI Task Force to help clients navigate compliance with diversity initiatives
Holland & Knight's practice groups have received numerous accolades and recognitions from industry publications and ranking organizations:
The firm received Band 1 rankings in 29 practice categories, with numerous attorneys individually recognized
National first-tier rankings in numerous practice areas, reflecting the firm's breadth and depth of expertise
Recognized across multiple practice areas in the U.S. and Latin America
Consistently recognized for client service excellence and industry expertise
While specific client matters are often confidential, Holland & Knight's website and publications highlight the firm's involvement in significant transactions, disputes, and regulatory matters across its practice areas. The firm's case studies portfolio demonstrates its capabilities in handling complex legal challenges for clients across various industries.
Following the merger with Thompson & Knight, the firm has particularly expanded its capabilities and client roster in the energy sector, handling sophisticated transactional and litigation matters for major industry players.
Holland & Knight has cultivated a reputation for maintaining a collegial, collaborative work environment while delivering sophisticated legal services to clients globally. The firm places significant emphasis on teamwork, professional development, and work-life balance within the context of a high-performing organization.
The firm's culture is characterized by several key elements:
The integration of Thompson & Knight in 2021 represents a significant cultural milestone, with the firm working to blend the strengths and traditions of both organizations. By most accounts, the integration has been successful in preserving the best elements of both firms' cultures while creating a unified organizational identity.
Holland & Knight operates in a traditional law firm structure with partners, associates, and professional staff, though the firm has increasingly embraced flexible work arrangements, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on available information:
Associates at Holland & Knight report general satisfaction with the firm's approach to work-life balance, though expectations vary by practice area and office. The firm has adopted more flexible work arrangements in recent years, including remote work options.
Billable hour requirements are competitive with peer firms, with typical targets around 1,900-2,000 hours annually. The firm also provides credit for pro bono work toward billable hour requirements.
Holland & Knight emphasizes professional development through formal training programs and mentoring relationships. The firm's Career Development program provides structured support for attorneys at all levels.
The firm's website highlights its commitment to supporting "professional growth through a comprehensive array of career development programs, customized to each lawyer's individual needs and interests."
Based on company reviews and industry publications, Holland & Knight generally receives positive feedback regarding professional satisfaction. According to Vault rankings, associates appreciate their colleagues and the quality of work available at the firm.
Associates report access to sophisticated, challenging matters and meaningful responsibility
The firm maintains a collegial atmosphere despite its size and geographic spread
Structured development programs complement on-the-job training
Holland & Knight offers competitive compensation packages to attract and retain top legal talent. Based on available information:
Associate salaries at Holland & Knight are competitive with peer firms, though they may vary by office location. According to available data:
Note: These figures represent base salary and may vary by office location and practice area.
The firm typically offers both merit-based and hours-based bonuses to associates. Bonus eligibility generally considers:
Holland & Knight utilizes a modified lockstep system for partner compensation, which incorporates both seniority and performance factors. Specific details about partner compensation are not publicly disclosed, but industry publications and available data suggest:
Equity partners share in the firm's profits based on a point system that considers:
According to available data, profits per equity partner were reported around $2 million in recent years.
Holland & Knight offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
According to the firm's FAQ section, "Lawyers are eligible to apply for partnership after eight years of creditable service." The path to partnership typically involves:
Consistent delivery of high-quality work
Development of strong client relationships and business generation potential
Development of expertise in practice area(s)
Contributions to firm culture, mentoring, and community involvement
Holland & Knight emphasizes professional growth and development for attorneys at all career stages. The firm has established comprehensive programs and resources to support attorneys in building successful, fulfilling careers.
According to the firm's website, Holland & Knight supports "professional growth through a comprehensive array of career development programs, customized to each lawyer's individual needs and interests." Key components include:
Practice-specific training, legal skills development, and business development training are offered throughout an attorney's career trajectory
Structured mentoring relationships pair junior attorneys with experienced practitioners to provide guidance, feedback, and career advice
Efforts to provide associates with diverse, challenging assignments that build relevant skills and expertise in their practice areas
Regular, structured feedback on performance and progress toward career goals
Holland & Knight's partnership track is structured to identify and develop future firm leaders. According to the firm's FAQ section, attorneys are eligible to apply for partnership after eight years of creditable service.
The partnership evaluation process typically considers:
Recognizing that not all attorneys seek or attain partnership, Holland & Knight offers alternative career paths, including:
Support for ongoing professional education, including in-house programs and external learning opportunities
Programs designed to develop management and leadership skills for future firm leaders
Resources and coaching to help attorneys develop client relationships and build their practices
Holland & Knight has demonstrated a significant commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within its own organization while also providing guidance to clients navigating the evolving legal landscape surrounding DEI programs. The firm's approach to diversity encompasses recruitment, retention, advancement, and leadership development for attorneys from historically underrepresented groups.
Key components of Holland & Knight's diversity and inclusion efforts include:
The firm has appointed a Diversity Partner to oversee and coordinate DEI initiatives. In June 2024, O'Kelly E. McWilliams III, a partner in the Washington, DC office, was named as the firm's new Diversity Partner.
The firm supports various affinity groups that provide community, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for diverse attorneys. These groups focus on fostering inclusion and advancement.
Targeted recruitment efforts and pipeline programs designed to increase diversity in the legal profession and at the firm
Mentoring, sponsorship, and professional development programs focused on the retention and advancement of diverse attorneys
It's worth noting that in 2025, following Executive Orders targeting DEI programs, many law firms, including Holland & Knight, have adjusted their public communications regarding diversity initiatives. The firm has maintained its core commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace while ensuring compliance with evolving legal requirements.
In addition to its internal diversity efforts, Holland & Knight has developed specialized expertise in advising clients on legally compliant DEI programs. The firm has established a DEI Task Force that provides companies with guidance on navigating the complex and evolving legal landscape surrounding diversity initiatives.
Following the January 2025 Executive Orders targeting certain DEI programs, Holland & Knight has published several insights and guides on "How to Run a Legally Compliant DEI Program" and "Running a Compliant DEI Program After EEOC, DOJ Guidance." This positions the firm as a thought leader on this evolving area of law while helping clients maintain their diversity commitments within legal boundaries.
Holland & Knight has received recognition for its diversity efforts from various organizations, though specific recent awards are not detailed in the research information. The firm has historically been acknowledged for its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.
As the legal landscape around DEI initiatives continues to evolve, Holland & Knight appears positioned to both adapt its internal programs to ensure compliance while continuing to foster an inclusive environment, and to provide sophisticated guidance to clients navigating similar challenges. The firm's dual approach—maintaining internal diversity commitments while developing expertise in compliance for clients—reflects a pragmatic response to changing legal requirements.
Holland & Knight has demonstrated a commitment to leveraging technology and innovative approaches both in its internal operations and in its client service delivery. The firm has invested in various technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency, improve client experience, and address emerging legal challenges in the digital age.
Holland & Knight has invested in its technology infrastructure to support efficient legal service delivery. Recent developments include:
In December 2024, the firm announced plans to move to Aderant's fully managed cloud-hosted solution Expert Sierra, reflecting a commitment to cloud-based infrastructure for core business functions.
Implementation of tools to enhance matter management, budgeting, and client communication
Systems for capturing, organizing, and leveraging the firm's collective legal knowledge and work product
The firm has partnered with Litera to implement several legal technology solutions, including Foundation, Kira, and Foundation Scoping, to enhance legal efficiency and data management
Holland & Knight has developed several innovation initiatives designed to enhance client service and address emerging legal needs:
The firm established HKLab, an innovation initiative that "leverages technology and innovation" to facilitate "a well-coordinated and high-tech approach to addressing the challenges our clients face." Though the HKLab appears to have been established some years ago (referenced materials date to 2017), it reflects the firm's early commitment to legal innovation.
The firm has established strategic partnerships with legal technology providers to enhance its capabilities:
Holland & Knight has developed specialized practice areas focused on emerging technologies, including:
Holland & Knight has developed several technology-enabled solutions to enhance client service:
Digital environments for secure collaboration with clients on complex matters
Partnership with StructureFlow to enhance data visualization capabilities for complex transactions and corporate structures
Development of AI-powered solutions for due diligence, contract analysis, and legal research
In addition to adopting technology internally, Holland & Knight has developed robust practice areas focused on technology law and policy. The firm's Technology Team "uses a collaborative approach when handling IP matters and works closely with the firm's outsourcing and e-commerce teams." The firm has specialized capabilities in areas such as:
Legal frameworks and compliance for AI development and deployment
Regulatory compliance, breach response, and privacy program development
Structuring and negotiating complex technology deals and licensing arrangements
Legal support for innovative environmental technologies and sustainable solutions
Holland & Knight has developed a sophisticated approach to client service that emphasizes collaboration, industry knowledge, and practical solutions. The firm's client service model reflects its understanding of clients' business objectives and the competitive landscape in which they operate.
While the research materials don't provide a detailed articulation of Holland & Knight's client service philosophy, the firm's website and published materials suggest several key elements:
Organization of legal services around industry sectors to provide contextual, business-oriented advice
Cross-practice, cross-office teams assembled based on client needs rather than rigid departmental structures
Use of technology to improve communication, collaboration, and information sharing with clients
Flexibility in fee structures to align with client objectives and provide predictability
Holland & Knight has invested in formal client management systems and processes to ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery:
The firm leverages various technologies to enhance client service:
The HKLab initiative specifically focuses on using technology and innovation to address client challenges in a "well-coordinated and high-tech approach."
Holland & Knight has received recognition for client service excellence from various organizations, including:
Holland & Knight has developed several specialized approaches to enhance client service and differentiate its offerings:
Deep expertise in key industries including energy, healthcare, financial services, real estate, technology, and transportation
Coordinated international service delivery through the firm's global network, particularly enhanced in Latin America following the Thompson & Knight merger
Development of creative approaches to legal service delivery, including technology-enabled solutions and specialized client teams
Holland & Knight has invested in various technology solutions specifically designed to enhance client service:
Digital workspaces for secure client collaboration and document sharing
Tools to present complex legal and business information in accessible, actionable formats
Systems to leverage the firm's collective expertise for client benefit
Secure digital interfaces for matter management, billing, and communications
This section evaluates key risk factors and challenges that may impact Holland & Knight's strategic position and operational effectiveness. Understanding these factors provides context for the firm's current trajectory and future outlook.
Holland & Knight operates in a highly competitive legal market, particularly in major metropolitan areas where it competes with both Am Law 50 firms and specialized boutiques.
Risk level: Moderate
The firm's size, diverse practice offerings, and geographic footprint provide competitive advantages, but it faces intense competition for premier work and talent.
The 2021 merger with Thompson & Knight, while strategic, presented integration challenges that are inherent in any significant combination.
Risk level: Low to Moderate
The merger appears to have been successfully integrated, with financial results suggesting positive outcomes. However, continued attention to cultural integration and client retention remains important.
While Holland & Knight offers services across numerous practice areas, certain sectors may be disproportionately important to its revenue.
Risk level: Low
The firm's broad practice diversification across industries and service areas provides resilience against sector-specific downturns.
The legal industry continues to experience intense competition for top talent, particularly in specialized practice areas.
Risk level: Moderate
Holland & Knight offers competitive compensation and development opportunities, but must continue to evolve its talent strategy to attract and retain top performers in a highly competitive market.
The firm's broad geographic footprint creates operational complexities and potential inefficiencies.
Risk level: Moderate
Managing a network of 34 offices requires significant coordination and presents challenges in maintaining consistent culture and service quality.
The accelerating pace of technological change in legal services delivery requires ongoing investment and adaptation.
Risk level: Low to Moderate
Holland & Knight has demonstrated commitment to technological innovation, but must continue to invest in emerging technologies to maintain competitiveness.
Economic cycles and market volatility can impact demand for legal services across various practice areas.
Risk level: Moderate
The firm's practice diversity provides some buffer against economic fluctuations, but certain practice areas (e.g., real estate, corporate transactions) remain sensitive to economic conditions.
Based on available information, Holland & Knight appears to be addressing key risks through several strategic approaches:
Expansion into complementary practice areas and geographic markets to diversify revenue streams and enhance client offerings
Ongoing investment in technology infrastructure and innovative service delivery models
Comprehensive professional development programs and competitive compensation to attract and retain top talent
This section examines Holland & Knight's competitive positioning within the legal market, evaluating its strengths, challenges, and differentiating factors relative to peer firms.
Holland & Knight occupies a distinctive position in the legal market landscape:
With $2.04 billion in revenue and ranking #26 on the Am Law 200, Holland & Knight sits in the upper-middle tier of major U.S. law firms. This positioning places the firm in competition with:
With 34 offices across the U.S. and internationally, Holland & Knight offers broader geographic coverage than many competitors of similar size
The firm offers services across more than 250 practice areas, providing comprehensive capabilities for clients with diverse legal needs
Following the Thompson & Knight merger, the firm possesses enhanced capabilities in energy law, particularly in Texas and Mexico
Strong government relations and regulatory practices, particularly in Washington D.C.
Positioned between elite global firms and mid-market providers, Holland & Knight must justify its rate structure through demonstrable value
Competition with Am Law 25 and above firms for the most sophisticated, high-margin matters
Intense competition for lateral talent with specialized expertise and significant client relationships
Keeping pace with larger firms' technology investments while maintaining profitability
Holland & Knight competes with several categories of firms, depending on practice area and geography:
Firms of similar size and scope, including those with strong regional presences and national capabilities
Strong regional firms in key markets like Florida, Texas, and the Mid-Atlantic
Specialty firms focused on key practice areas like energy, healthcare, and government relations
Several factors distinguish Holland & Knight in the competitive landscape:
Several market trends are shaping Holland & Knight's competitive environment:
The legal market continues to see significant consolidation, with firms seeking scale and geographic expansion through mergers and acquisitions
Emerging technologies, including AI and automation, are changing how legal services are delivered and priced
Clients increasingly seek seamless service across jurisdictions, creating advantages for firms with international capabilities
Holland & Knight appears well-positioned for continued growth and evolution in the coming years, building on its recent successes while navigating the changing legal landscape. The firm's trajectory suggests several key themes that will likely shape its future:
The firm may continue to expand in high-growth, high-margin practice areas, particularly those complementary to its existing strengths in energy, healthcare, technology, and financial services
Having already established a substantial U.S. footprint, the firm may focus on strategic international expansion, particularly in Latin America where it has existing strength, and potentially in Asia or Europe
Given the success of the Thompson & Knight merger, Holland & Knight may consider additional strategic combinations to accelerate growth in target markets or practice areas
Holland & Knight's investments in technology and innovation are likely to continue and accelerate:
Having reached the #26 position in the Am Law 200, Holland & Knight appears positioned for potential further advancement. The firm's recent performance suggests it could potentially enter the Am Law 20 in the coming years through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions.
The firm's $2.04 billion in revenue for 2024 marks a significant milestone, and continued growth at comparable rates would further strengthen its market position relative to peer firms.
Holland & Knight's future success will depend significantly on its ability to attract, develop, and retain top legal talent:
Continued strategic lateral hiring to enhance capabilities in target practice areas and markets
Enhancement of professional development programs to build a strong pipeline of future partners
Ongoing focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion to attract diverse talent and meet client expectations
Adaptation to changing work preferences, including flexible arrangements that attract and retain top talent
Several challenges and uncertainties may shape Holland & Knight's future trajectory:
Evolving regulations affecting key client industries will create both challenges and opportunities for the firm's regulatory practices
Economic cycles will impact demand for various practice areas, requiring agility in resource allocation
Continued evolution of the legal services industry, including new competitors and service delivery models
Holland & Knight appears well-positioned for continued success and growth in the coming years. The firm's strategic direction suggests:
The firm's recent performance, highlighted by surpassing $2 billion in revenue and reaching the #26 position in the Am Law 200, provides a strong foundation for future growth while its investments in technology and talent development position it to adapt to changing market conditions.
